Beauty

How to get the perfect top knot

Beauty

How to get the perfect top knot

Forget about that hasty post-gym topknot. This version is piled higher than ever and made for cocktail parties. We asked Kristjan Hayden, creative director of Aveda Canada, for his spin on a polished sky-high bun.

Step 1This style is best for two or three days after washing, but if your tresses are squeaky clean, spritz dry hair with a thickening spray (like dry shampoo, it gives allover body, plus shine) to give fullness and grip. To get that tight-against-the-head effect without making your hairstyle look too stiff —or, worse, lumpy —make a dividing part across the top of your head from ear to ear, says Hayden. Brush the front section into a high ponytail on top of your head and secure with an elastic.

Step 2Brush the back section of hair so it meets up with the first ponytail, then secure it with another elastic. To keep it taut in back, Hayden advises tilting your chin up; this simple trick makes it easier to gather hair, and you can get the nape much tighter, eliminating sagging.

Step 3To give your topknot some volume, divide the high ponytail into two sections and lightly tease with a natural-bristle brush. "Back-brushing is softer and fluffier than back-combing, which can create frizz and broken hairs," says Hayden. If you have super-slippery fine hair, he suggests spraying with dry shampoo before back-brushing.

Step 4Combine the two sections of the ponytail, giving it a light brushing to smooth the outer areas. Next, wrap the ponytail around its base and secure with bobby pins. If you want a slightly dishevelled look, run your fingers through the sides of your hair, rubbing at bits and pieces to give them texture. Finish with strong-hold hairspray.